1/2 cup shortening (bacon grease can be used, because of the spices that hide its taste)

1 cup sugar, brown or white

1 cup water

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp other spices (cloves, mace, ginger, etc.)

1 cup chopped raisins or other dried fruits (prunes, figs, etc.)

2 cups flour, white or whole wheat

1/4 tsp soda

2 tsp baking powder